Amid canvassing, Robredo celebrates husband's birthday

Mylce Mella, ABS-CBN News Bicol

NAGA CITY (UPDATED) - Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo officially won the vice-presidential race on Friday, after Congress, sitting as National Board of Canvassers (NBOC) completed its counting of votes from 167 certificates of canvass (COCs).

Robredo, who was in a neck and neck race with second placer Senator Bongbong Marcos, was ecstatic over her historic win.

But what made Friday, May 27 more memorable is that it was also her late husband Jesse’s 58th birth anniversary.

Earlier Friday, Robredo returned home to celebrate the 58th birth anniversary of her husband who died in a plane crash in 2012.

On her Facebook page, the incoming vice president posted a photo of Jesse with the accompanying caption: "Always and forever the better half of me. Happy Birthday."

Unlike in previous years, Robredo said the celebration was simpler this time.

She attended the unveiling of a bust of her late husband at the Cararayan National High school, which he founded during his first year as Naga City mayor in 1989.

READ: Leni Robredo relives 'whirlwind' romance with Jesse

Robredo's allies who won in this year's elections had their oath-taking ceremony today in honor of the two-decade mayor of Naga City.

One of them was Gabriel Bordado, a long-time family friend, who will replace Robredo as representative of the third district of Camarines Sur.

READ: Leni on VP win: Napakaimposible pero nangyari